More than 5,000 computers are refurbished and distributed annually to public schools and another 1,000 to First Nations' schools, private schools, libraries, Literacy Nova Scotia and other non-profit organizations. More than 90,000 refurbished computers have been distributed to date.

"I'd like to congratulate everyone involved with Computers for Schools on reaching the 20-year milestone," said Patricia Arab, MLA for Fairview-Clayton Park, on behalf of Education and Early Childhood Development Minister Karen Casey.

"On behalf of Minister Casey, and the thousands of Nova Scotians who have benefitted from Computers for Schools, thank you for helping to make computers accessible to all Nova Scotians."

More than half of the computers in Nova Scotia schools come from Computers for Schools.

"For 20 years, the Computers for Schools Program has given students the opportunity to learn, connect and communicate, building skills that are essential for their future education and careers," said Industry Minister James Moore.

"Our government is proud to collaborate with donors, partners and volunteers to continue supporting the refurbishment of surplus computers and allowing them to be reused in schools and other learning organizations across the country."

The program also hires new IT graduates through the Technical Work Experience Program. More than 300 IT graduates have gained first-hand work experience over the 20 years and some now work as technicians in the public school system.

Computers for Schools re-uses or refurbishes donated desktops, laptops, printers, servers and other equipment from provincial and federal government offices, as well as from private-sector companies and recycles all its e-waste through the provincial recycling program. It is funded

by the province and Industry Canada, with support from the Nova Scotia School Boards Association, the Nova Scotia Teachers Union, and private sector partners.